I was invited to perform as pianist singer at the Deloitte conference event at the Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel, London. This is a stunning hotel and venue on the South Bank near Westminster Bridge.

Due to the early set up and soundcheck on Wednesday, I had accommodation for two nights at the venue. So, I headed down with the piano in the van on Tuesday.

That evening, my Wimbledon cousin Paddy gave me a tour of Lambeth and Westminster. This included a quick pint at the Lord Clyde on Clenham Street – the shortest street in London in fact.

The next day, after a brisk walk out to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and a bite to eat, it was time to get to work. I set the piano up in the Thames Suite before a soundcheck with the guys from Metro Broadcast.

The backdrop of the River Thames and Westminster was absolutely stunning (see image).

Interesting idea: each table of guests had an iPad which enabled them to send their requests to the iPad I had on top of the piano. As a pianist singer, I see requests as a key part of what I do.

However, the inherent “risks” in the iPad request format soon became apparent: everything was in good taste but some requests were pretty left-field and others were just not feasible…

Still after a few sets, I had covered lots of requests with a fair bit of banter in between. I’d also made some new friends from “up north” with some Madchester classics – courtesy of Oasis and the Stone Roses.

So, another successful corporate event in the big smoke. Thanks to Liz, Vicky, Alex and the team for looking after me so well and for making everything run so smoothly. I hope to see you all again soon! x